Eating local food is an easy way to improve your health and the world around you. For many of us, buying and preparing food is little more than an annoyance to check off a to-do list. But behind every fruit and vegetable is the person who grew it and their unique story. Des Moines farmers markets help you become a part of the story and may inspire you to eat healthier.
A Des Moines farmers market allows you to get to know the people who make and grow your food and view your meal as part of a story rather than just a product. This can help you connect with your community, eat healthier, and enjoy the best of Des Moines at each weekly market. And, of course, it’s fun! You will savor new foods, meet new people, and maybe stock up on flowers for your table or garden.
Local food is fresher and more nutritious. Some people with smaller farms don’t use chemicals you may want to avoid, such as large quantities of pesticides. Des Moines farmers markets are also great for the environment because food doesn’t have to be shipped across the nation or the globe.
A local market also makes exercise easy as you stroll from booth to booth. You’ll get a healthy dose of vitamin D, which supports your immune system, promotes cognitive health, and lowers your risk of osteoporosis.
However, a farmers market is about more than food and health. It’s a chance to get to know your neighbors and form meaningful relationships with the people who grow your food. It just might inspire you to grow your own food! And it’s fun to stroll through a Des Moines farmers market with friends and family, sampling food and trading recipes.
The Best Des Moines Farmers Markets
Check out these Des Moines farmers markets for freshly grown food and fellowship:
Downtown Farmers’ Market
Located in the Historic Court District, the Downtown Farmers’ Market operates on Saturdays from May until October, 7 a.m.-12 p.m. Daily Meal ranked it the No. 2 best farmers market in America, citing its exceptional diversity of food and vendors. Shoppers enjoy a rotating list of vendors that includes not only farmers, but also health and beauty suppliers, freshly made food, plenty of plants, and entertainment from local musicians.
Iowa Food Cooperative
The Iowa Food Cooperative is a hybrid farmers market with online ordering from dozens of Iowa vendors available year round. You can also attend the in-person market Tuesdays and Fridays, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a vast range of products, from dairy and meat to fruits and vegetables, as well as plenty of pre-made goods and non-food items.
Pleasant Hill Community Farmers Market
Open Mondays from June through August, The Pleasant Hill Community Farmers Market boasts more than 100 local vendors selling produce, prepackaged meals, desserts, natural health and beauty products, and more. The market is also the site of the spring and fall indoor craft markets, where you can stock up on clothing, home goods, and gifts from local artisans.
Beaverdale Farmers Market
Open Tuesdays from June through September, 4-7 p.m., the Beaverdale Farmers Market offers a combination of Iowa-grown goods and artisan-manufactured products. Dozens of vendors rotate through the market throughout the season. Shoppers can also connect with local businesses and nonprofit organizations. The market hosts a range of events for holistic living, including yoga seminars, live music, and fitness classes.
Farmers markets are just one page in your next chapter. Enjoy life in Des Moines to its fullest with our free “The Complete Guide to Healthy Senior Living in the Des Moines Metro Area.”
